Urodynamic investigation apparatus, system, and methods

ABSTRACT

A urodynamic investigation apparatus for receipt of urine from a bladder is provided. The apparatus is characterized by a tubular element, first and second fittings, and a sleeve element, for select passage of urine there through, within the tubular element. The tubular element is characterized by opposing first and second end portions, and a port. The fittings are adapted to be received by the opposing end portions of the tubular element so as to delimit an apparatus chamber. The sleeve element, suspended between the fittings within the chamber, has collapsed and open configurations. The collapsed configuration is indicative of a no urine flow condition, and the open configuration indicative of a urine flow condition, with the sleeve element urine flow condition being a function of pressure applied to the chamber via the port of the tubular element.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This utility patent application is a U.S. National Stage filing under 35U.S.C. § 371 of application Ser. No. PCT/US2019/17621, filed Feb. 12,2019, which is an international patent application filed under 35 USC §363 claiming priority under 35 U.S.C § 120 of/to United States Pat.Appl. Ser. No. 62/633,652 filed Feb. 22, 2018 and to U.S. Pat. Appl.Ser. No. 62/742,602 filed Oct. 8, 2018, each filed pursuant to 35 U.S.C.§ 111(b) and entitled PULSING URETHRAL COMPRESSION AND ABDOMINAL EMG FORBPH DIAGNOSIS, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention is generally directed to urodynamic investigationson male subjects, more particularly, to improvements relative tonon-invasive urodynamic investigations as shown and described, forexample, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,506,169 (Griffiths), incorporated herein byreference in its entirety, including attendant urodynamic investigationdevices, apparatus, assemblies or subassemblies, and/or methods as thecase may be.

BACKGROUND

In relation to urodynamic investigations, a Voiding Pressure Study (VPS)is the diagnostic gold-standard for determining the relationship betweenpressures generated by the body, and the urine output flow rate. Bysimultaneously determining the pressures generated by the body duringvoiding and the resulting urine output (i.e., discharge) flow rate, ahealthcare provider, commonly a urologist, can deduce the amount ofoutlet flow resistance at the bladder neck and urethra. Thisinformation, in combination, can inform as to the potential sources oflower urinary tract symptoms, and the likelihood that certaininterventions will be successful. For instance, if it is determined thata subject generates high pressures with a low urine output flow, he isdeduced to have high outlet resistance, and a procedure to lower theoutlet resistance may be considered.

Traditional VPS involve the simultaneous measurement of threephysiologic parameters or signals: (1) a measurement catheter is placedin the bladder which continuously measures the vesical pressure withinthe bladder; (2) a measurement catheter is placed in the abdominalcavity which continuously measures abdominal pressure; and, (3) thevoided volume of urine is collected and continuously weighed so thaturine flow rate can be ascertained.

The body generates pressure to force urine out of the body from twosources: (1) the primary source should be a coordinated contraction ofthe bladder wall (i.e., detrusor muscle), and (2) some subjects “beardown” and voluntarily produce an abdominal contraction. The measurementcatheter in the bladder cannot differentiate the pressure generated bythe detrusor muscle from that generated by the abdomen contraction. Inorder to isolate (i.e., identify) the pressure generated by thedetrusor, the abdominal pressure must be subtracted from the vesicalpressure.

An exemplary pressure versus time relationship during a void isillustrated in FIG. 1, namely, the top (uppermost) graph is the outputof the pressure sensor in the bladder (Pves—vesical pressure), themiddle (intermediate) graph is the output of the pressure sensor in theabdominal cavity (Pabd—abdominal pressure) and the bottom (lowermost)graph is the calculated difference resultant (Pves-Pabd), namely, theamount of pressure generated by the bladder walls contracting(Pdet—detrusor pressure). The depicted relationships of FIG. 1 indicatea subject who is generating substantial pressure during a void, however,nearly all of the pressure generated is coming from an abdominalcontraction. Traditional VPS is an underutilized diagnostic in the U.S.for subjects suspected of having bladder outlet obstruction. The test isan invasive test that requires catheters to be placed into and throughboth the tip of the penis and the rectum, and it involves filling thebladder with sterile water. It is estimated that less than 1% ofpatients being treated for bladder outlet obstruction receive atraditional VPS.

Applicant SRS Medical Systems, LLC (Massachusetts, USA) manufactures theCT3000 Plus Complete Urodynamics System, a system characterized by aUroCuff® bladder function monitoring/assessment device. The device andsystem enable a non-invasive voiding pressure study called the UroCuffbladder function test which simultaneously measures urine flow rate andvesical pressure (see “Principles of the UroCuff Test,” SRS MedicalSystems, Inc., adopted from Dr. Michael Drinnan & Dr. Clive Griffiths(Newcastle University), P/N 291-045 Rev A, incorporated herein byreference in its entirety). With reference to FIG. 2, the study/studysystem 21 contemplates controlled regulated pressure application to apneumatic penile cuff 23, via an automated pressure supply apparatus orsystem 25, during a urine void event, with urine egressmonitoring/collection for the sake of direct or indicted volumetric flowrate determination, via a urine collection/flow rate indicating ordetermining system 27, during select pressure application.

After having naturally filled his bladder by drinking fluids so as toattain a comfortably full bladder, the subject is positioned for thetest. Vesical pressure is measured non-invasively with the pneumaticpenile cuff (i.e., an article resembling a blood pressure cuff) insteadof via an indwelling catheter.

The principle of the test is similar to blood pressure measurement. Whenthe subject is ready to void, the cuff is fitted around the penis, andthe subject is asked to void, directly or otherwise, into a flowmeasuring device, apparatus or system. When voiding has commenced, thecuff is inflated with aid of the automatic pressure supply and controlassembly/subassembly until the urine discharge stream is interrupted viaapplication of the applied cuff restriction. Further inflation cyclesare executed until the void is complete. The cuff pressure required tointerrupt flow equals vesical pressure at the time of interruption.

Once the test is complete, pressure-flow data is generated as a modifiednomogram in a characteristic UroCuff bladder function test report.Nomograms from two different subjects having identical maximum flowrates of 3.1 ml/s are illustrated in FIG. 3, each of these subjectspresenting as “low flow rate” subjects, however, the UroCuff bladderfunction test nomogram on the left reveals that the first subject (A)has a high vesical pressure (˜173 cmH₂O), while the nomogram on theright reveals the second subject (B) has low vesical pressure (˜61cmH₂O). The first subject is more likely to have voiding symptomimprovement as a result of a de-obstructive procedure.

The current UroCuff protocol involves waiting for the subject to beginvoiding. Once the subject voids, the cuff inflates at a linear rate of10 cmH₂O per second. The urine flow rate is constantly measured as thecuff inflates, and the protocol requires the cuff to inflate to apressure that interrupts the flow of urine. Once the flow of urine isinterrupted, the cuff completely deflates and a second inflation cycleis started. The second inflation cycle again linearly increases thepressure in the cuff until the urine flow is completely interrupted.Cycles repeat until the subject has emptied his bladder so as toconclude the void and thus complete the test.

An illustrative graphic showing parameter values as a function of timeis provided herein FIG. 4 indicating performance of four inflationcycles with the monitoring and recording of applied pressure, urinedischarge flow rate, and urine discharge volume. The top (uppermost)graph shows the cuff pressure and a series of four linear inflations(i.e., linear pressure increases to the point of dischargecessation/stoppage), with the middle (intermediate) graph showing theurine flow rate. Comparison of the depicted relationships indicates thatas the cuff pressure increases, the urine flow rate decreases. Thebottom (lowermost) graph shows the total voided volume of urine.

An analysis of the four inflations from the FIG. 4 study is illustratedin the graphs of FIG. 5. Each inflation event or sequence is transformedinto a flow versus cuff pressure graph, and an analysis is performed todetermine the pressure applied by the cuff which caused an interruptionof the urine flow. This is known as the interruption pressure. In thisexample, inflation #2 resulted in the maximum interruption pressure of125 cmH₂O, which is the data point utilized to represent the vesicalpressure.

There are three shortcomings or at least challenges associated with thecurrent UroCuff bladder function protocol: (1) more often than not, asubject experiences discomfort by having the cuff inflate to a pressurewhich cuts of urine flow (i.e., application of an interruption pressureis at least uncomfortable, and at most painful); (2) if a subject haslimited voiding volume, the protocol may only involve one or twoinflation cycles which correspondingly limits data/measurement accuracyand associated assessment; and, (3) some subjects instinctively createabdominal pressure by pushing at the end of a void, and this phenomenonmakes it difficult to determine the interrupt pressure.

Applicant's present work contemplates three distinct improvements to theknown UroCuff bladder function test. First, an alternate cuffinflation/deflation approach is provided, namely one that ischaracterized by a less is more data acquisition approach. Second,supplemental data acquisition via the use of abdominal electromyography(EMG) provides for an improved estimation of Pdet and Pabd. Third,circumscribing the penis with a pneumatic cuff in furtherance of dataacquisition is eliminated with placement of a pneumatic cuff substituteassembly distal to the urethra for, among other things, improved,reliable data acquisition, provided.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A urodynamic investigation apparatus for receipt of urine from a bladderis provided. The apparatus is characterized by a tubular element, firstand second fittings, and a sleeve element, for select passage of urinethere through, within the tubular element. The tubular element ischaracterized by opposing first and second end portions, and a port. Thefittings are adapted to be received by the opposing end portions of thetubular element so as to delimit an apparatus chamber. The sleeveelement, suspended between the fittings within the chamber, hascollapsed and open configurations. The collapsed configuration isindicative of a no urine flow condition, and the open configurationindicative of a urine flow condition, with the sleeve element urine flowcondition being a function of pressure applied to the chamber via theport of the tubular element.

A fitting of the fittings maybe configured to receive a drainage tube ofan external catheter, or alternately configured to receive orcooperatively engage periurethral tissue. Moreover, a fitting of thefittings may be configured or adapted to operatively unite withdownstream test components, such as, without limitation, a urine egressrouting tube, or urine flowrate determination apparatus. Further still,an interface of, for, or between the fittings and the tubular element ischaracterized by a leak proof seal, or in one embodiment, an O-ring orthe like.

The sleeve element may be directly or indirectly suspended in relationto the fixtures. Anchor elements are contemplated but are not required.Advantageously, the sleeve element is a compliant element, comprised of,for example and without limitation, a thermoplastic, more particularlyand advantageously, a shrink tubing.

In addition to the urodynamic investigation apparatus, improved andenhanced test protocols are contemplated. A contemplated improvedurodynamic pressure profiling method is characterized by applying andrecording a first pressure to a lumen carrying urine discharge from abladder without terminating urine flow through the lumen and determininga urine flow rate corresponding to the first applied pressure.Thereafter, a second pressure is applied to the lumen carrying urinedischarge from the bladder, without terminating urine flow therethrough, and recorded, the second pressure greater or less than thefirst pressure by a select pressure increment. The urine flow ratecorresponding to the second applied pressure is likewise determined.Next, a third pressure is advantageously applied to the lumen carryingurine discharge from the bladder, without terminating urine flow therethrough, and recorded, the third pressure greater or less than thesecond pressure by the select pressure increment. The urine flow ratecorresponding to the third applied pressure is likewise determined.Finally, via an assessment of applied pressures and corresponding flowrates, either or both of an applied pressure corresponding to a no flowurine condition and maximum urine discharge flow rate is ascertained.

Finally, an enhanced urodynamic pressure profiling method ischaracterized by applying and recording a first pressure to a lumencarrying urine discharge from a bladder without terminating urine flowthrough the lumen and determining a urine flow rate corresponding to thefirst applied pressure. Simultaneously therewith, surface electrodes,part-and-parcel of an EMG apparatus/system, are positioned and appliedto an abdomen of a subject, with a voltage selectively applied to thesurface electrodes while recording the applied voltage and detectedvoltage generated by the active abdominal muscles. More specificfeatures and advantages obtained in view of the summarized features willbecome apparent with reference to the drawing figures and DETAILEDDESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

All figures have been prepared, and are included to facilitate and/orenhance an understanding of the basic teachings of the contemplatedembodiments, and/or the concepts underlying same, and are incorporatedin and constitute a part of this specification. While the drawingsillustrate embodiments and context with respect thereto, and togetherwith the description serve to explain principles of embodiments, otherembodiments and many of the intended advantages of the disclosedsystems, subsystems, assemblies, subassemblies, apparatus, devices,mechanisms, methods, etc. will be readily appreciated as they becomebetter understood by reference to the following detailed description andfigures. It is to be noted that the elements of the drawings are notnecessarily to scale relative to each other, with like referencenumerals designating corresponding similar parts/structures.

FIGS. 1-15 are provided herewith wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts illustrative voiding pressure study pressure componentvalues as a function of subject void time, namely, vesical, abdominal,and detrusor pressure components;

FIG. 2 schematically depicts a known voiding pressure study procedure,more particularly, a UroCuff® bladder function monitoring/assessmentprocedure;

FIG. 3 depicts illustrative comparative applied pressure-urine flownomographs for separate subjects;

FIG. 4 depicts exemplary applied pressure (upper), urine discharge flowrate (intermediate), and urine discharge volume (lower) values as afunction of test/cycle time for the FIG. 2 procedure, four pressurecycle applications indicated;

FIG. 5 depicts relationships for and between urine discharge flow rateand applied pressure for/at each pressure cycle application event ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 6 depicts the relationships of FIG. 5 wherein data sets acquiredvia an improved bladder function test procedure areillustrated/superimposed thereon demonstrating the predictive value ofthe improved procedure;

FIG. 7 schematically depicts an improved voiding pressure studyprocedure, more particularly, a bladder function monitoring/assessmentprocedure characterized by a urodynamic investigation apparatus in lieuof a penile cuff characteristic of the UroCuff bladder function test;

FIG. 8 depicts, side elevation view, a contemplated urodynamicinvestigation apparatus for receipt of urine from the bladder;

FIG. 9 depicts, top plan view, the apparatus of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 depicts, elevation sectional view, the apparatus of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 depicts, exploded isometric view, the apparatus of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 depicts, side elevation view, a further contemplated urodynamicinvestigation apparatus for receipt of urine from the bladder;

FIG. 13 depicts, top plan view, the apparatus of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 depicts, elevation sectional view, the apparatus of FIG. 12;and,

FIG. 15 depicts, exploded isometric view, the apparatus of FIG. 12.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In advance of particulars of and for improved urodynamic pressureprofiling methodologies on the one hand, and of and for improvednon-invasive voiding pressure study procedures characterized by aurodynamic investigation apparatus for the receipt of urine from thebladder on the other hand, an overview the instant description isbelieved worthwhile. Moreover, preliminary remarks will thereafterfollow to better inform disclosure particulars.

As to organization, the description proceeds with a discussion of one ormore high value data acquisition approaches characteristic of the one ormore contemplated improved and/or enhanced urodynamic pressure profilingmethodologies, e.g., with initial reference to FIG. 6. Thereafter, andnotionally, the contemplated improved and advantageous voiding pressurestudy procedure/set-up (FIG. 7), and contemplated, non-limitingadvantageous urodynamic investigation apparatus embodiments (FIG. 8 etseq. & FIG. 12 et seq.) are presented.

Notionally, Applicant aims not to abandon the well-known and widelypracticed UroCuff bladder function test, but to instead offerpurposeful, advantageous enhancements, adaptations, substitutions, etc.in either or both of the protocol (i.e., the methodology) and the testset up, system, apparatus, etc. Moreover, while particulars arepresented in the context of the UroCuff test, contemplated improvementsneed not be so limited, with implementation of disclosedmethodologies/apparatuses readily suited, with minimal or no adaptation,to/for heretofore known and emerging VPS approaches/protocols.

A first contemplated alternate approach to known bladder function testprotocols implicates, and is directed to, pressure profiling, moreparticularly, to an advantageous departure in the manner in which theinflations/deflations occur. Specifically, rather than performing aseries of inflations (i.e., pressure applications) which culminate inthe interruption (i.e., stoppage) of urine discharge flow, each of whichis followed by deflation (i.e., a reverse of the pressure application),one or more inflation sequences can occur in which the applied pressureincreases and decreases to establish a relationship between pressure andflow without resort to a cessation of urine discharge flow which oftentimes, with use of a penile cuff, can be an issue for the test subjectand which is likewise known to skew data sets. Via the instant approach,namely, limiting pressure application to a subset of the pressure rangedelimited by at least the interrupt pressure, and extrapolating theobtained data sets to ascertain the interruption pressure and maximumurine flow rate, rather than repeatedly measuring it, an improvedsubject experience is had, with arguably “better” data obtained (i.e.,at least as good data obtained) in what is a shortened period for dataacquisition.

For instance, and without limitation, applied pressure (e.g., cuffpressure) may be linearly increased, and linearly decreased at 10cmH₂O/s. The subject could begin laminar flow, and once flow commences,applied pressure could increase to a maximum, for example 60 cmH₂O. Uponregistering an applied pressure of 60 cmH₂O, the cuff could linearlydeflate to a minimum pressure, for example 30 cmH₂O. This abbreviatedinflation/deflation cycle could continue to repeat until the subjectcompletes the void.

Generally, and without limitation, the contemplated improved urodynamicpressure profiling method is characterized by applying and recording afirst pressure to a lumen carrying urine discharge from a bladderwithout terminating urine flow through the lumen and determining a urineflow rate corresponding to the first applied pressure. Thereafter, asecond pressure is applied to the lumen carrying urine discharge fromthe bladder, without terminating urine flow there through, and recorded,the second pressure greater or less than the first pressure by a selectpressure increment. The urine flow rate corresponding to the secondapplied pressure is likewise determined. Next, but not necessarily, athird pressure is applied to the lumen carrying urine discharge from thebladder, without terminating urine flow there through, and recorded, thethird pressure greater or less than the second pressure by the selectpressure increment. The urine flow rate corresponding to the thirdapplied pressure is likewise determined. Finally, via an assessment ofapplied pressures and corresponding flow rates, either or both of anapplied pressure corresponding to a no flow urine condition and maximumurine discharge flow rate is ascertained.

The predictive value of the described protocol/method is bestappreciated with reference to FIG. 6 wherein the inflation analysis ofFIG. 5 is represented with a line (L) on each inflation sequencerepresenting the analysis of the pressure-flow relationship between30-60 cmH₂O. It is readily observable that these data could beextrapolated to reliably predict interrupt pressure and maximum flowrate without resort to/for direct measurement.

A second contemplated alternate or supplemental approach to knownbladder function test protocols implicates, and is directed to, improvedor enhanced accuracy, more particularly, to supplementing the heretoforepracticed UroCuff test with abdominal electromyography (EMG) dataacquisition and assessment so as to estimate Pdet and Pabd pressurecomponents. The UroCuff Test currently reports the interrupt pressure,which is the pressure that the cuff applies to the penile urethra tointerrupt urine flow. Moreover, the relationship between cuff pressureand urine flow rate is continuously monitored, with such approachpermitting an understanding of how increased outlet resistance affectsflow rate, and thus allows characterization of the pressure within thebladder (i.e., vesical pressure).

Via additionally simultaneously measuring surface EMG on the abdomen ofa test subject, an accurate determination of whether the subjectabdominally strains during the voiding phase of the study is possible.An improved or enhanced UroCuff bladder function test protocol can becreated in which one or more surface EMG sensors can be placed on theabdomen for simultaneous sensing and recording during the voiding study.

Generally, and without limitation, the contemplated enhanced urodynamicpressure profiling method is characterized by applying and recording afirst pressure to a lumen carrying urine discharge from a bladderwithout terminating urine flow through the lumen and determining a urineflow rate corresponding to the first applied pressure. Simultaneouslytherewith, surface electrodes, part-and-parcel of an EMGapparatus/system, are positioned and applied to an abdomen of a subject,with a voltage selectively applied to the surface electrodes whilerecording the applied voltage and detected voltage generated by theactive abdominal muscles. The combination of these steps may be repeatedin the context of the traditional UroCuff bladder function test, or, forinstance, in the context of the previously described improved urodynamicpressure profiling method.

Turning now to the bladder function test system per se, known andadapted test systems are schematically shown, FIGS. 2 & 7 respectively.Inspection and contrast of the schematic test systems yield anintentional, critical point of departure, namely, Applicant abandonspenile urethral clamping via application of a penile cuff. Whileapparatus/systems for pressure application, recording, etc., andapparatus/systems for urine flow rate determination, recording, etc.,among other system components and/or features, remainconventional/state-of-the-art, Applicant provides alternate, substitute,surrogate, and/or proxy means for effectuating manipulations to urinedischarge flow rates from the bladder via the application of pressurenot inconsistent with known bladder function test protocols.

With continued reference to alternate study system 30 of FIG. 7,notionally, means 32 are provided distal or downstream of the urethra asindicated part-and-parcel of the illustrated schematic procedure. Suchtest system approach offers three distinct advantages: (1) improvedpatient comfort; (2) simpler placement for medical staff; and, (3)direct compression of the urine stream without implicating peniletissue. Contemplated distal or downstream flow regulation may beaccomplished in a variety of ways.

For example, and without limitation, a known or adpated penile clamp maybe operatively combined with a standard external male catheter, alsoknown as Texas catheter, condom catheter, or urisheath. Such catheter istraditionally utilized in male patients with incontinence, or urineleakage (see e.g., Hollister Extended Wear Male External Catheter 26-30mm). The external male catheter is placed around or about the penis soas to form a urine tight seal therewith. The catheter includes a tubeextending from a distal end of a condom, the tube commonly terminting ata urine drainage bag. Should a patient leak, urine is passed through thetube and into the drainage bag.

In this scenario, the drainage tube of the external male catheter isequipped or equippable with a pneumatic cuff, with the test subjectpermitted to void through the external male catheter. As the cuffinflates, pressure is applied to the drainage tube and the urine flow islimited by the applied external pressure applied as per the selectbladder function test protocal. Disadvanatges, or at least limitationsof this approach are: (1) the large diameter (i.e., approximately 0.375″internal diameter) of the standard catheter drainage tube requires thetube to be physically compressed to affect flow rate; and, (2) thestiffness of the exit tube limits the direct pressure being applied tothe urine channel within.

One contemplated, advantageous, non-limiting approach to distal ordownstream flow regulation involves using the external male catheter, tomake a fluid seal with the exterior surfaces of the penis, and operablyunite the catheter, via the drainage tube, to a urodynamic investigationapparatus. An advantageous, non-limiting urodynamic investigationapparatus for indirect union with the penile urethra is depcited in FIGS. 8 et seq. As will be subsequently taken up, the contemplated apparatuspermits pressure regulated urine flow therethrough in furtherance ofbladder function test data acquisition and bladder/lower urinary tractassessment.

A further contemplated, advantageous, non-limiting approach to distal ordownstream flow regulation involves provisions for a urodynamicinvestigation apparatus adapted for cooperative engagement withperiurethral tissue of a subject. An advantageous, non-limitingurodynamic investigation apparatus for direct union with the penileurethra is depcited in FIGS. 12 et seq. As will be subsequently takenup, the contemplated apparatus permits pressure regulated urine flowtherethrough in furtherance of bladder function test data acquisitionand bladder/lower urinary tract assessment.

With initial and general reference now to each of FIGS. 8 & 10 on onehand, and FIGS. 12 & 14 on the other hand, there are shown, in elevationand section views, alternate embodiments 40, 40′ of a urodynamicinvestigation apparatus for receipt of urine from a bladder. Apparatus40, 40′ receives voided urine at a urine ingress end 42, 42′, anddispatches the received voided urine at a urine egress end 44, 44′.

Apparatus 40, 40′ includes a tubular element 46, 46′ characterized byopposing first 48, 48′ and second 50, 50′ end portions, and a port 52,52′, and further includes first 54, 54′ and second 56, 56′ fittingsadapted to be received by opposing first 48, 48′ and second 50, 50′ endportions of tubular element 46, 46′ so as to delimit an apparatuschamber 58, 58′. A sleeve element 60, 60′, for select passage of urinethere through, is suspended between first 54, 54′ and second 56, 56′fittings within chamber 58, 58′. The element may advantageously but notnecessarily extend through and exterior of a fitting of the fittings, orthrough and exterior of each of the fittings. As will be subsequentlydetailed, the sleeve element has collapsed and open configurations, thecollapsed configuration being indicative of a no urine flow condition,the open configuration being indicative of a urine flow condition, withthe sleeve element urine flow condition a function of pressure appliedto the chamber via the port of the tubular element.

The illustrated apparatuses, or variants thereof, are operablycombinable with either or both of a flow rate determination apparatus,for determining rates of urine egress from the sleeve element, and acontrollable pressure applying apparatus for selectively applyingpressure to the chamber (i.e., establishing a select pressure therein)and to the sleeve element during passage of urine there through.Moreover, bladder function test systems characterized by thecontemplated apparatuses, or variants thereof, are not limited to thoseshown or otherwise disclosed with form generally fitting functionrelative to either or both of targeted test parameters/sought-after-dataand the means/mechanism to process and/or evaluate acquired data.

The tubular element is advantageously, but not necessarily, circular incross section and of sufficient rigidity to sustain its shape/chamberintegrity for/throughout an operative test pressure range of up to about200 cmH2O. Acrylic or polycarbonite tubing from McMaster Carr (McMasterCarr 8532K15, nominal 0.75″OD) is known to be advantageous in relationto both the FIG. 8 and FIG. 12 embodiments.

The sample port may readily take the form of a tapped fitting (e.g.,female luer) through the element sidewall as shown FIG. 8, or may takethe form of a branched portion of the element, e.g., a y-extension ofthe tubular element as shown FIG. 12. In all circumstances, aconventional interface for applying pressure from a pressure source tothe chamber of the apparatus via the tubular element is believedsuitable.

With particular reference now to FIGS. 8-11, the fittings of theapparatus are sealingly received at and/or by the opposing end portionsof the tubular element. Advantageously, but not necessarily, aninterface for/between the fittings and the tubular element ischaracterized by a leak proof seal, for example an impervious adhesivesealant. While “slip” fittings are contemplated and shown, the fittingsneed not be so limited.

A fitting of one of the first and second fittings may be adapted foroperative union with a urine egress routing tube, or the fitting may beadapted for operative union with flowrate determination apparatus. Withone fitting so adapted, the other fitting is advantageously adapted foroperative union with an external catheter.

With particular reference now to FIGS. 12-15, fittings 54′, 56′ ofapparatus 40′ are, as the FIG. 8 embodiment, sealingly received atand/or by the opposing end portions 48′, 50′ of the tubular element 46′.Advantageously, but not necessarily, an interface for/between thefittings and the tubular element is characterized by a leak proof seal,more particularly as shown, the interface may be advantageously but notnecessarily characterized by an O-ring 80. Moreover, the interface isfurther characterized by a mechanical fastener, more particularly asshown, the interface may be advantageously but not necessarilycharacterized by a slotted spring pin 82.

A fitting of one of the first and second fittings may be adapted foroperative union with a urine egress routing tube, or the fitting may beadapted for operative union with flowrate determination apparatus inkeeping with the FIG. 8 embodiment. With one fitting so adapted, theother fitting is advantageously adapted for cooperative engagement withperiurethral tissue, or adapted to receive periurethral tissue thereinas the case may be. In contradistinction the apparatus of FIG. 8, theinstant apparatus is directly linked to the penile urethra via a urethraengaging device (UED), advantageously, but not necessarily, a UED asdisclosed by Kron et al. via U.S. Pat. No. 9,277,884, and/or in one ormore patent family members having origins therein, each of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Sleeve element 60′ is generally suspended within chamber 58′ ofapparatus 40′ via fittings 54′, 56′ or adaptations thereof. Moreparticularly, the sleeve element extends between each of the fittingsvia an indirect affixation or anchoring with respect thereto (FIG. 14),as by means of anchors in the form of couplings 84. Notionally, thesleeve element is a fluid extension of the urethra (i.e., it is in fluidcommunication therewith, as by direct means, e.g., a UED or the like(FIG. 12), as opposed to indirect means, e.g., a urine drainage line ofan external catheter (FIG. 8 embodiment)).

A desirable and advantageous property of/for the sleeve element is, butis not necessarily limited to, compliance. The sleeve element (i.e., theportion spanning the anchored ends thereof), in an “out-of-the-box”state or condition (i.e., static state), has a minimal cross sectionalarea, with a typical void event essentially opening and filling thesleeve element and passing urine there through, an “active” lumen forurine passage thereby delimited. Application of pressure to the chambervia the port of the tubular element of the apparatus results in a sleeveelement response, namely, a collapsing of the lumen with a commensuratealtering of the urine flow rate of the urine passing there through.

For example, and without limitation, the sleeve element (i.e., urinepathway) advantageously comprises a thermoplastic, more particularly,but not necessarily, the sleeve element comprises a heat shrinkmaterial, more particularly still, a heat shrink material from NordsonMedical, Colorado, USA, namely Nordson Part Number 103-0042. Thismaterial has an expanded internal diameter of about 0.140″ and a nominalwall thickness of 0.00025″. The sleeve element advantageously has highlycompliant walls, a resting/static closed configuration (i.e., flat/nearflat condition), and an active condition characterized by an expandeddiamater (e.g., up to about to 0.140″) owing to urine flow passagetherethrough.

Beyond the aforementioned advantages of the instant urodynamicinvestigation apparatus, it is again emphasized that a urine routingtube, e.g., conventional 0.125″-0.250″ ID tygon tubing, may be readiliylinked to the urine egress portion of the apparatus via the fittingthereof. This allows for two options to more accurately measure urineflow rate and total voided volume.

First, the distal end of the routing tubing can be placed in closeproximity to a urine scale so that the urine is routed to the scalewithout loss. The distal end of the routing tubing can also be made tofloat, so that it can be placed directly into the urine beaker on thescale and sit above the voided urine. This can be accomplished, forexample, by attaching the distal end of the routing to a small styrofoamfloat or the like which sits in the urine beaker.

Second, the routing tubing can be connected to a non-contact liquid flowmeter, for example and without limitation, the UF32210 Clamp-OnUltrasonic Flow Sensor by Strain Measurement Devices. The flow sensornon-invasively measures urine flow in real-time, allowing the urine tostill be routed to the scale for calculation refinement, or the urinecan be routed directly to a toilet for direct disposal.

Thus, the instant apparatus, in the context of an improved bladderfunction test/test set up, overcomes shortcomings of traditional urineflow rate determination via urine free flow onto a supported urine scalewherein: (1) urine may not land on the scale and is thus not calculatedinto flow rate and voided volume; (2) the force of the urine hitting thescale may result in pertubations of the weight of urine on the scale andresult in “noise” in the flow calculation; and, (3) the time for theurine to travel to the scale results in a delay in relationship betweenpressure and flow.

What has been described and depicted herein are preferred, non-limitingembodiments of Applicant's subject matter, along with some applicationcontexts. Since the elements of the system and/or structures of theassemblies, subassemblies, and/or mechanisms disclosed herein may beembodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit orgeneral characteristics thereof, some of which forms have beenindicated, the embodiments described and depicted herein/with are to beconsidered in all respects illustrative and not restrictive. Moreover,while nominal operational steps or sequences and/or a protocol have beenset forth, and to some degree alternate work pieces and systems,assemblies, etc. with regard thereto referenced, contemplatedsequences/protocols are not so limited. Accordingly, the scope of thesubject invention is as defined in the language of the appended claims,and includes not insubstantial equivalents thereto.

That which is claimed:
 1. A urodynamic investigation apparatus forreceipt of urine from a bladder, the apparatus comprising: a. a rigidtubular element characterized by opposing first and second end portions,and a port; b. first and second fittings adapted to be received by saidopposing first and second end portions of said rigid tubular element soas to delimit a chamber for the apparatus, a fitting of said first andsecond fittings adapted to receive periurethral tissue therein, saidchamber subject to pressurization via said port of said rigid tubularelement during a urodynamic investigation; and c. a sleeve element forselect passage of urine there through, said sleeve element suspendedbetween said first and second fittings within said chamber, said sleeveelement having collapsed, compressed, and open configurations, said openconfiguration corresponding to a first operative condition for theapparatus, said collapsed configuration corresponding to a secondoperative condition for the apparatus, said first operative condition ofthe apparatus characterized by urine passage through said sleeveelement, said second operative condition for the apparatus characterizedby no urine passage through said sleeve element, said compressedconfiguration yielding an operative condition for the apparatuscharacterized by a scaled urine passage through said sleeve elementcommensurate with a sleeve element response owing to chamberpressurization during the urodynamic investigation.
 2. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 1 wherein a fitting of said first andsecond fittings is adapted for operative union with a urine egressrouting tube.
 3. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 1wherein a fitting of said first and second fittings is adapted foroperative union with flowrate determination apparatus.
 4. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 1 wherein an interface for each of saidfirst and second fittings, relative to said rigid tubular element, ischaracterized by a leak-proof seal.
 5. The urodynamic investigationapparatus of claim 1 wherein an interface for each of said first andsecond fittings, relative to said rigid tubular element, ischaracterized by an O-ring.
 6. The urodynamic investigation apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein an interface for each of said first and second fittings,relative to said rigid tubular element, is characterized by mechanicalfastener.
 7. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 1 whereinsaid sleeve element comprises a thermoplastic.
 8. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 1 wherein said sleeve element comprisesshrink tubing.
 9. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 1wherein said sleeve element is directly anchored to each of said firstand second fittings.
 10. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim1 wherein said sleeve element is indirectly anchored to each of saidfirst and second fittings.
 11. The urodynamic investigation apparatus ofclaim 1 in operative combination with either or both of a flow ratedetermination apparatus for determining rates of urine egress from saidsleeve element, and a controllable pressure applying apparatus forselectively applying pressure within said chamber and to said rigidsleeve element during passage of urine there through.
 12. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 1 wherein said rigid tubular element ischaracterized by a circular cross-section.
 13. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 1 wherein said sleeve element isexpandable.
 14. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 1wherein said sleeve element is characterized by an expandable crosssection.
 15. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 1 whereinsaid sleeve element is characterized by an expandable cross section, anexpanded cross section for said sleeve element associated with saidfirst operative condition for the apparatus.
 16. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 1 wherein said sleeve element ischaracterized by an expandable cross section, an expanded cross sectionfor said sleeve element associated with said first operative conditionfor the apparatus, a non-expanded cross section for said sleeve elementassociated with a non-operative status for the apparatus.
 17. Aurodynamic investigation apparatus for receipt of urine from a bladder,the apparatus comprising: a. a rigid tubular element characterized byopposing first and second end portions, and a port; b. first and secondfittings adapted to be received by said opposing first and second endportions of said rigid tubular element so as to delimit a chamber forthe apparatus, a fitting of said first and second fittings adapted toreceive periurethral tissue therein, said chamber subject topressurization via said port of said rigid tubular element during aurodynamic investigation; and c. an expandable sleeve element for selectpassage of urine there through, said sleeve element suspended betweensaid first and second fittings within said chamber in a non-expandedcondition, said expandable sleeve element having open, compressed, andcollapsed configurations, said open configuration corresponding to afirst operative condition for the apparatus, said collapsedconfiguration corresponding to a second operative condition for theapparatus, said first operative condition of the apparatus characterizedby urine passage through an expanded expandable sleeve element, saidsecond operative condition for the apparatus characterized by no urinepassage through collapse of the expanded expandable sleeve element, saidcompressed configuration yielding an operative condition for theapparatus characterized by a scaled urine passage through said sleeveelement commensurate with a sleeve element response owing to chamberpressurization during the urodynamic investigation.
 18. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 17 wherein a fitting of said first andsecond fittings is adapted for operative union with a urine egressrouting tube.
 19. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 17wherein a fitting of said first and second fittings is adapted foroperative union with flowrate determination apparatus.
 20. Theurodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 17 wherein a fitting of saidfirst and second fittings is adapted for operative union with anexternal catheter.
 21. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim17 wherein a fitting of said first and second fittings is adapted forcooperative engagement with periurethral tissue.
 22. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 17 wherein an interface for each ofsaid first and second fittings, relative to said rigid tubular element,is characterized by a leak-proof seal.
 23. The urodynamic investigationapparatus of claim 17 wherein an interface for each of said first andsecond fittings, relative to said rigid tubular element, ischaracterized by an O-ring.
 24. The urodynamic investigation apparatusof claim 17 wherein an interface for each of said first and secondfittings, relative to said rigid tubular element, is characterized bymechanical fastener.
 25. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim17 wherein said expandable sleeve element comprises a thermoplastic. 26.The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 17 wherein saidexpandable sleeve element comprises shrink tubing.
 27. The urodynamicinvestigation apparatus of claim 17 wherein said expandable sleeveelement is directly anchored to each of said first and second fittings.28. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim 17 wherein saidexpandable sleeve element is indirectly anchored to each of said firstand second fittings.
 29. The urodynamic investigation apparatus of claim17 in operative combination with either or both of a flow ratedetermination apparatus for determining rates of urine egress from saidexpanded expandable sleeve element, and a controllable pressure applyingapparatus for selectively applying pressure within said chamber and tosaid expanded expandable sleeve element during passage of urine therethrough.